AFC West rookies: First rounders are stepping up

Division’s top picks have been standing out in preseason

If the preseason is any indication, it seems like all four AFC West teams have nailed it with their first round picks.

Let’s take a look at first-rounder from the division, presented in order of selection:

Tackle Joe Alt, Chargers, No. 5:

The Notre Dame product has been near perfect as a pass protector. He looks like the real deal and he should be a major cog for Jim Harbaugh, who loves leaning on stud offensive linemen. Alt will have a tough test to begin his NFL career, though, as he will likely face Raiders’ superstar pass-rusher Maxx Crosby often in Week 1. That will be fun to watch.

Photo by Tyler Schank/Getty Images

Quarterback Bo Nix, Broncos, No. 12:

Nix has been good and Wednesday, he was reward by being named the Broncos’ Week 1 starter. Nix looks very steady and, most importantly, the Oregon product looks NFL ready.

Nix has potential to be dangerous under the guidance of Denver coach Sean Payton.

Tight end Brock Bowers, Raiders, No. 13:

The Georgia product didn’t play in the second preseason game because of a sore foot. But Bowers looked good and was active in the first preseason game. Plus, Bowers has impressed in training camp and he lined up in several different spots and he will be used in many different ways right away. He’s a weapon.

Wide receiver Xavier Worthy, Chiefs, No. 32:

Worthy and Chiefs’ superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes have built an early chemistry and wowed Chiefs fans with daily highlight plays in training camp and they have hooked up in the preseason as well. Worthy gives Mahomes an element he missed the past couple of years. This can be a scary combination.